Ashdown leads Reading fightback: Hockey

Scott Ashdown, with two deflected goals at penalty corners, kept Reading in pole position for their first National League title as they came from behind to beat Guildford 4-2 at Sonning Lane yesterday. With Teddington beating Cannock 5-4 the title will be decided on the last games on the Sunday after Easter when Reading entertain Cannock and Teddington are at home to Canterbury. Third-placed Cannock are now out of contention.

Ian Jennings scored two first-half goals to give Guildford a 2-1 lead at half-time.Wyatt equalised with a penalty stroke early in the second half.

With Guildford reduced to nine men by temporary suspensions to Mark Morris and Rob Bilsland, Wyatt drove his side forward and Ashdown scored his second goal before Jon Loose sealed victory.